<p>I wanted to see if any parents had any experience with University of Edinburgh in Scotland. Specifically, I am looking for any impressions regarding the school's reputation in the U.S. and their Freshman Year Abroad Program.</p>
<p>We are an American family living in Switzerland. My son is considering this program as we will remain in Europe through his freshman year. Thereafter, there is a good possibility we will return to the U.S. </p>
<p>As I understand it, the program allows North American students to experience a year of education at University of Edinburgh with no further commitment. If the student is successful, enjoys it and would like to remain, they can continue on toward a degree at Edinburgh. If not, they are able to apply as a transfer student to an American school.</p>
<p>My concern is how applying after one year from University of Edinburgh will look to elite U.S. universities. Are his chances better to apply as an incoming freshman to high quality U.S. schools or would such a program improve his odds?</p>
<p>University of Edinburgh can in no way make your student look bad; it is a fantastic school. The only worry you should have is that some schools rarely accept transfer students. However, most schools are similar, so if your student does decide to transfer, there is a good chance that he’ll be accepted at multiple universities that will offer the same experience.</p>
<p>I’m interested in Edinburgh, too.</p>
<p>I’m going to McGill University in Canada next year and in our second year I can do a study abroad year at uEdinburgh (or at many other snazzy institutions). I’m still not sold no the idea, but I’d love to go to the UK and if I hear good things about Edinburgh, maybe it’ll sell me on it.</p>
<p>I don’t know anything about the University of Edinburgh, but I second what remyluvsrogue said. Especially for elite universities, it can be much, much harder to get in as a transfer student than as a freshman. If I’m not mistaken, some of the tippy-top schools don’t even accept transfers at all (someone please correct me if I’m wrong on this).</p>
<p>US News ranks the University of Edinburgh as the 20th best university in the world. I don’t see a problem with choosing to participate in the program.</p>
<p>I currently attend the university of Edinburgh; if you or your son have any questions, feel free to PM me. 
(I’m American, by the way.)</p>
<p>Thank you to all for your input. Regarding transferring to elite U.S. schools, I checked the websites of several schools my son is considering (G-town, William and Mary, Wake Forest & Cornell) and all accept transfers. From my own experience Cornell, my alma mater, is quite friendly in their transfer policies.</p>
<p>My son is by no means a lock for any of the aforementioned schools. My thought process was a successful year at Edinburgh would only improve his chances/bolster his application. Edinburgh is a long long way from the typical juco. Am I wrong in this assumption?</p>
<p>Of course, if he really enjoys it he can continue on at a school with a fantastic reputation globally.</p>